Elias Vance had intended to bring Leo Croft along to the dinner at Marcus Bishop's base, but Leo refused repeatedly, waving his hands and insisting he absolutely would not go. It was understandable enough. Ordinary people carried a natural reverence toward military power, a wariness that kept them at arm's length from such circles.
Gideon glanced at Elias. "Marshal, since Leo isn't coming, are we still going?"
"We're going," Elias said evenly. "Put on your uniform. We'll use the visit to inspect the local garrison while we're at it, get a read on the discipline and atmosphere of Cresthaven's stationed troops."
Gideon nodded without hesitation and immediately began preparations.
Cresthaven had been quiet for three years. But today, a cascade of events both large and small had swept thro
